Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has reacted to remarks credited to a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, on his presidential aspiration.
George, who spoke on a programme on Arise TV on Friday, said Atiku’s presidency would have destabilised the country.
He said: “What am I looking for? Let us stand by the truth because it is only the truth that would liberate you. When we had that election, we divided the party (PDP) into two.
“If Atiku had won, I would have stayed in my house because I know for real (that) in future he would collapse. This country would never accept.”
However, in a statement issued on Saturday by his media aide, Paul Ibe, the PDP presidential candidate in the 2023 election said his presidency would have ushered the country into an era of prosperity.
He also berated the former Ondo State military administrator for bringing ethnic sentiment into the discussion on who rules the country.
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The statement read: “Contrary to Chief Bode George’s imprudent talk, an @atiku presidency would have heralded an era of prosperity, driven by a cabinet brimming with seasoned and adept individuals, chosen solely on merit regardless of their background or beliefs.
“Such leadership would have safeguarded Nigeria’s interests, steering clear of the bigotry and nepotism and brigandage that characterizes this administration. Instead of the current state of disarray, driven by haphazard policies, Nigeria would have thrived under Atiku’s guidance.
“In contrast, we see Bode George, who once threatened exile, should Tinubu ascend to power, now oddly silent about the present administration. Is Bode’s reticence because Atiku is not from his region? It is prudent to consider Bode’s opinions with caution.
“Bode’s conduct is a disservice to the military, an institution esteemed for its unity. Here is a Commodore who, paradoxically, embraces tribalism and undermines the very principles of the military. It is a source of shame for the armed forces to have such a figure in their ranks.”
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